Just got the list together for suspension parts .. $1275 worth to be exact.

 

Very true ECS, I just wish a few clubs were ALOT closer than 2.5 hours away.

 

I'll second the recommendation for Bavarian. I used to live in Old Town Wichita so they were walking distance up the street from me, and Bavarian always did excellent work on my car and was reasonably priced. I had some belts changed and suspension work, and heartily recommend them. I'm in NH now and miss having such a good shop close by.

 

Totally YES
+1

 

Since the closest dealer is three hours away, Bavarian has removed that drama with better than outstanding service. Plus Maurice always puts a test hop on every vehicle they service to ensure his standard of quality.

 

I am going to look into his shop now since everyone has well words about them. But what is a test hop?

 

For what it's worth, I installed a new H&R rear sway bar in about 3 hours this morning (full disclosure - I have air tools). That included removing and refitting shocks, so if you are going to swap those it too it won't take any longer. Not a bad job at all - some unusual socket sizes needed (13 mm, 16 mm, 21 mm, and a 17 mm wrench) but I didn't get caught up on anything other than having to reposition my jack stands in order to take the shocks out.

I used the pelican parts procedure linked to on the first page and it was pretty much spot-on, other than failing to mention that you have to remove the wheel well liners first, and that you need a 17mm wrench to back the hidden nut when you remove the nut connecting the sway bar end to the linkage. They said you need a 5mm allen key to back it but I apparently don't have those parts - the 17mm nut is between the sway bar end and the link.

I chose the 19mm H&R sway bar ($175 plus shipping from FCPeuro.com) because the bushings do not need to be greased. I set it up on the stiffer setting. It makes a noticeable difference in how the car carves a corner, but I think I could have gone with a 22mm bar - the 19mm feels good, but it's far from "too much".

Ready for auto-x now!!!

 

We have the rear 19mm bar here: With free ship. Mfg Part# 71416-2 . On the R53 its not to bad, but on the R52 convertible its a little more work.

http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/ES1304049/

 

DIY work will definitely save you some money. Maybe contact a friend that will loan you the tools? We have a great assortment of DIY Tech Articles that can help you save some cash.



Control Arm Bushing and Ball Joint Replacement.
Front Shock and Spring Replacement.
Rear Shock and Spring Replacement.

If you aren't able to do this, an independent shop that specializes in Mini's is your best bet. Dealerships will always cost the most for any type of work done on your vehicle. Good luck and do let us know if you need any help with any DIY you decide to do yourself.

-Luccia

 

Thank you to both ECS, and Pelican for the help. Better yet thank you everyone! I am changing the fuel filter, CAF, and transmission oil this and next weekend. Then its back to the drawing board for the suspension.

 

Aka test drive.

 

Gotcha, thanks!

 

Welcome.

 

My pleasure! If you do need any further assistance please do not hesitate to give us a call. Cheers!

-Luccia

 

Will do thanks again!